How to Repair Window Glazing
Replace old, cracked glazing compound around window panes
What You'll Need
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Tools
Putty knife
Chisel
For removing old glazing
Heat gun(optional)
To soften old putty
Glazing tool(optional)
For smoothing new glazing
Pliers
For removing old glazing points
Materials
Step-by-Step Instructions
Remove old glazing compound
30-45 minutes
Use a heat gun to soften the old glazing, or carefully chip it out with a chisel and putty knife. Work carefully to avoid cracking the glass. Remove all loose and cracked material.
Warning
Don't pry against the glass - it can crack easily. Apply force against the wood frame only.
Remove old glazing points
10 minutes
Glazing points are small metal pieces that hold the glass in the frame. Carefully pry them out with pliers or a screwdriver. Save them to see what size you need.
Pro Tip
There should be at least 2 points per side of the pane.
Clean and seal the channel
15 minutes
Clean all old putty and debris from the wood channel. If the bare wood is exposed, apply linseed oil or wood primer to seal it. Let dry before applying new glazing.
Pro Tip
Sealing the wood prevents it from drawing oil out of the glazing, which would cause it to dry out and crack.
Apply a bed of glazing
10 minutes
Roll a thin rope of glazing compound and press it into the channel where the glass sits. Press the glass firmly into this bed. This creates a seal behind the glass.
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10 minutes
Push new glazing points into the wood frame against the glass, at least 2 per side. Use a putty knife to push them in flat. Points should be flush and not sticking up.
Pro Tip
Space points every 4-6 inches for larger panes.
Apply glazing compound
10 minutes
Roll glazing compound into a rope about 1/2 inch thick. Press it into the channel at a 45-degree angle, covering the glazing points and creating a seal between glass and wood.
Smooth the glazing
10-15 minutes
Dip your putty knife in water or mineral spirits. Draw it along the glazing at a 45-degree angle in one smooth motion to create a clean, beveled surface. The glazing should not be visible from inside.
Pro Tip
Practice on scrap first. The angle should match the interior edge of the wood frame.
Allow to cure before painting
Wait 7-14 days
Let the glazing cure for 7-14 days before painting (check product instructions). Glazing must be painted to prevent weathering - use exterior trim paint.
Warning
Don't paint too soon or the paint will crack as the glazing continues to cure.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Removing old glazing too aggressively (cracks glass)
- Skipping the glazing points (glass can fall out)
- Painting before the glazing has cured
- Not sealing bare wood (glazing dries out prematurely)
Safety Warnings
- Wear safety glasses when removing old glazing
- Be careful with heat gun around glass (rapid temperature change can crack it)
- Use caution with sharp tools near glass
When to Call a Professional
If the glass is cracked or broken, for historic window restoration, or for large picture windows.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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Project Overview
- Difficulty
- Intermediate
- Time
- 1-2 hours
- Est. Cost
- $10–$30
- Tools
- 5 items
- Materials
- 3 items
- Steps
- 8
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